Dynamically reactive spinal support system

ABSTRACT

A brace device for the support of a wearer. The brace device comprises a flexible smart fabric, operable to partially or substantially enclose and/or lie adjacent to one or more portions of the thoracic, lumbar and/or cervical portions of the spine of the wearer. Fabric hardening means are provided, operable to partially or substantially harden one or more regions of the smart fabric upon application of an activating stimulus, thereby to prohibit, restrict and/or resist movement of one or more portions of the spine of the wearer. One or more predetermined regions of the smart fabric are in a substantially flexible configuration when the fabric hardening means are not activated, facilitating positioning, fitment and/or adjustment of the device around the wearer. Upon activation of the fabric hardening means, the one or more predetermined regions are operable to cause the one or more predetermined regions to assume a substantially rigid configuration and thereby partially or substantially support and/or immobilize of at least a portion of the spine of the wearer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/195,826, filed Aug. 1, 2011, which itself is a continuationin part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/147,231,entitled “Dynamically Reactive Spinal Support System”, filed on Aug. 1,2011 as a National Stage application of PCT/US2010/055043; claimingpriority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/257,793filed on Nov. 3, 2009, the disclosures of which are incorporated hereinby reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a brace device; typically for the provision ofdynamic support to the back and/or neck of a wearer engaged in high-riskactivities, or for dynamic immobilization and support of a patientsuffering from a spinal injury. The brace device has ready applicabilityin protective or preventative applications, including incorporation inhelmets and padding used by racing car drivers, football players, andmilitary personnel; and in medical applications, including cervicalcollars and other spinal bracing for trauma victims after an accident orinjury.

The invention addresses the need to minimize abnormal movement of thehead, neck, back and/or spine during an impact or collision, or otherinjury-causing sudden change in movement; providing rigidity thatrestricts the potentially injury-causing movements from being subjectedto the spine, whether from the original impact or change in movementand/or upon subsequent recoil.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a bracedevice for the spinal support of a wearer, the brace device comprising:

-   -   a plurality of component parts, each component part being        moveable relative to at least one other component part;    -   movement sensing means, for monitoring the movement of at least        one component part relative to at least one other component part        with which it is moveable, the movement sensing means generating        one or more output signals indicative of said movement or in        response to a change in movement;    -   movement resisting means, provided on one or more of said        component parts and operable to prohibit, restrict and/or resist        movement of at least one component part relative to at least one        other component part; and    -   control means in communication with the movement sensing means        and the movement resisting means, the control means being        programmed to interpret and/or analyze the said one or more        output signals generated by said movement sensing means within        predetermined parameters and/or criteria;        wherein one or more of the movement resisting means are        dynamically controlled in response to one or more signals being        received from the control means when the control means        determines a movement or change in movement requires support of        the spine of the wearer.

Typically the brace device is utilized in the mitigation or preventionof injuries to a wearer participating in high risk activities. Suchactivities typically involve a risk of significant impact to the body,back or head of the wearer, or to the vehicle or equipment with whichthe wearer may be associated.

Preferably, the brace device is arranged to have one or more componentparts, alone or in combination with other component parts, substantiallyor partially encircle and/or lie adjacent one or more portions of thespine of the wearer; typically the neck, and more particularly, aroundthe cervical and thoracic portion of the spinal column of the wearer.The component parts are typically plates. Preferably, the brace deviceis comprised of combined neck and chest collar portions.

Preferably, the movement sensing means and the movement resisting meansare adapted to sense and resist linear, shear and rotational movement.

The movement sensing means may include one or more microelectro-mechanical accelerometers, gyroscopes, force-transducers,pressure sensors and/or strain gauges.

Preferably, the movement sensing means are adapted to sense the rate ofchange in velocity (acceleration/deceleration) and/or a change ininclination (pitch and/or yaw). The movement sensing means typicallyinclude an accelerometer and/or gyroscope, capable of detecting movementchanges in three dimensions (triple-axis). Preferably, the movementsensing devices are micro electro-mechanical systems.

The movement sensing means may include the airbag deployment systemand/or the dynamic stability control system of the vehicle in which thewearer is travelling.

Typically, the control means is an electronic microprocessor, connectedby wire or connected wirelessly to the movement sensing means and themovement resisting means. Typically, the connections are flexibleelectrical conducting wires.

Typically, the component parts are operable to articulate, relative toone another, at one or more interfaces defined by the movement resistingmeans, whereby a tendency for a motion of one component part relative toanother component part is prohibited, restricted and/or resisted.Alternatively, in certain situations, for example after an impact issubjected on a wearer, a tendency for the interface to remain in astatically abnormal immobilization configuration, or to urge furthersecondary movement between the component parts into a secondaryconfiguration, may be permanently or temporarily assisted in order toprevent or mitigate further injury from rebound or recoil movement ofthe head and/or body of the wearer after an impact or other injuriousevent.

Typically, the component parts are adapted from moveable overlappingplates, preferably manufactured from a breathable fabric (for comfort),that is adapted to allow relatively free movement of the neck and headunder normal circumstances, but provides immediate immobilization at theinitiation of abnormal head, neck or spinal movement. The movementresisting means are typically located in the region of possible overlap.

Typically, the brace device may comprise means for generating a wirelessdistress signal, operable to notify emergency crews after the activationof the device.

One or more component parts may be tethered or otherwise connected to ahelmet worn by the wearer. The helmet may itself be formed of one ormore parts, at least one of which may act as a component part relativeto the component parts of the brace device.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a bracedevice for the spinal support of a wearer, the brace device comprising:

-   -   a flexible smart fabric, operable to partially or substantially        enclose and/or lie adjacent to one or more portions of the spine        of the wearer;    -   movement sensing means, for monitoring the movement of at least        one location on the smart fabric relative to one or more other        locations on the smart fabric and/or other portions of the brace        device, the movement sensing means generating one or more output        signals indicative of said movement or in response to a change        in movement;    -   fabric hardening means, operable to partially or substantially        harden one or more regions of the smart fabric upon application        of a stimulus, thereby to prohibit, restrict and/or resist        movement of one or more portions of the spine of the wearer; and    -   control means in communication with the movement sensing means        and the hardening means, the control means being programmed to        interpret and/or analyze the said one or more output signals        generated by said movement sensing means within predetermined        parameters and/or criteria;        wherein one or more regions of the flexible fabric is        dynamically controlled in response to one or more signals being        received from the control means when the control means        determines a movement or change in movement requires support of        the spine of the wearer.

The smart fabric may be tethered or otherwise connected to a helmet wornby the wearer. The helmet may itself incorporate a smart fabric whichmay respond independently or in response to one or more signals beingreceived from the control means.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a bracedevice for the support of a wearer, the brace device comprising:

-   -   a flexible smart fabric, operable to partially or substantially        enclose and/or lie adjacent to one or more portions of the        muscular-skeletal system of the wearer;    -   movement sensing means, for monitoring the movement of the        wearer and/or one location on the smart fabric relative to one        or more other locations on the smart fabric and/or other        portions of the brace device, the movement sensing means        generating one or more output signals indicative of said        movement or in response to a change in movement;    -   fabric hardening means, operable to partially or substantially        harden one or more regions of the smart fabric upon application        of a stimulus, thereby to prohibit, restrict and/or resist        movement of one or more portions of the muscular-skeletal system        of the wearer; and    -   control means in communication with the movement sensing means        and the hardening means, the control means being programmed to        interpret and/or analyze the said one or more output signals        generated by said movement sensing means within predetermined        parameters and/or criteria;        wherein one or more regions of the flexible fabric is activated,        deactivated or dynamically controlled in response to one or more        signals being received from the control means when the control        means determines a movement or change in movement requires        support of the muscular-skeletal system of the wearer.

Preferably, the brace device of either aspect of the invention includesadditional sensors for monitoring the physical condition or the wearer,including the heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure and thepresence and/or location of bleeding.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a bracedevice for the spinal support of a wearer, the brace device comprising:

-   -   a plurality of component parts operable in combination to be        placed over substantially the thoracic, lumbar and/or cervical        portions of the spine of the wearer, each component part being        moveable relative to at least one other component part; and    -   movement resisting means, provided on one or more of said        component parts and operable upon activation to prohibit,        restrict and/or resist movement of at least one component part        relative to at least one other component part;        wherein one or more predetermined regions of the combination of        component parts are in a substantially flexible configuration        when the movement resisting means are not activated,        facilitating positioning, fitment and/or adjustment of the brace        device around the wearer, and upon activation of the movement        resisting means are operable to cause the one or more        predetermined regions to assume a substantially rigid        configuration and thereby partially or substantially support        and/or immobilize of at least a portion of the spine of the        wearer.

Preferably, one or more of the component parts are shaped and/orcontoured to correspond with a body habitus of an average wearer.

The movement resisting means may be electromagnetic locks that areoperable to provide pre-tensioning around the wearer prior to locking.

A rod, having engaging means to engage the brace device, may be used tofacilitate positioning of the brace device behind the wearer.

Preferably, one or more of the component parts are radiolucent and oneor more radio-opaque component parts and/or movement resistant means arepositioned to minimize potential overlap with the spinal anatomy of thewearer.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a bracedevice for the support of a wearer, the brace device comprising:

-   -   a flexible smart fabric, operable to partially or substantially        enclose and/or lie adjacent to one or more portions of the        thoracic, lumbar and/or cervical portions of the spine of the        wearer;    -   fabric hardening means, operable to partially or substantially        harden one or more regions of the smart fabric upon application        of an activating stimulus, thereby to prohibit, restrict and/or        resist movement of one or more portions of the spine of the        wearer; and        wherein one or more predetermined regions of the smart fabric        are in a substantially flexible configuration when the fabric        hardening means are not activated, facilitating positioning,        fitment and/or adjustment of the device around the wearer, and        upon activation of the fabric hardening means are operable to        cause the one or more predetermined regions to assume a        substantially rigid configuration and thereby partially or        substantially support and/or immobilize of at least a portion of        the spine of the wearer.

The hardening means and/or the applied stimulus may be thermal,chemical, mechanical, electrical or magnetic.

One or more predetermined regions of the brace devices may selectivelybe activated or deactivated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows the head and neck of a wearer fitted with a cervical collarbrace device according to a first embodiment of the present invention,in a normal, free movement position;

FIG. 2 shows the wearer and collar of FIG. 1, wherein the head and neckhave been extended forward to a potentially abnormal position followingan impact being subjected to the wearer, and the collar brace device hasbeen engaged to restrict movement of the head and neck;

FIG. 3 shows a simplified drawing of an alternate embodiment of thebrace device of the present invention, wherein the brace devicecomprises component parts located around the cervical portion of thespine, with additional support being provided from component partsprovided on the shoulders, chest and upper back of the wearer;

FIG. 4 shows an electromagnetic locking assembly, with correspondingengageable catch-plate and electromagnet components;

FIGS. 5 a and 5 b show the electromagnetic locking assemblies of FIG. 4,located on the mating (overlapping) portions of adjacent componentparts;

FIG. 6 shows a simplified drawing of an alternative embodiment of theinvention adapted to be worn as a balaclava in high-risk activities;

FIG. 7 shows a very simplified conceptual drawing of the flexibleextrication system device (plate shapes, sizes and configurations arenot indicative of actual relative dimensions); and

FIGS. 8( a) to 8(d) show the manner in which the flexible extricationsystem device may be applied to a trauma patient in readiness forextrication; with (a) showing pull-rods positioned behind the neck andback to facilitate positioning of the proposed flexible extricationsystem device; (b) and (c) showing the flexible extrication systemdevice being positioned; and (d) showing the patient with the flexibleextrication system in place after activation.

The illustrations are intended to provide a general understanding of theconcepts described and the structure of various embodiments, and theyare not intended to serve as a complete description of all the elementsand features of methods and systems that might make use of thestructures or concepts described herein. Many other embodiments will beapparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.Other embodiments may be utilized and derived, therefrom, such thatstructural and logical substitutions and changes may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of this disclosure. It should also beappreciated that the figures are merely representational, and are not bedrawn to scale and certain proportions thereof may be exaggerated, whileothers may be minimized. Accordingly, the specification and drawings,together with any examples, are to be regarded in an illustrative ratherthan a restrictive sense and the specific form and arrangement of thefeatures shown and described are not to be understood or interpreted aslimiting on the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In FIG. 1, a wearer's head 10 is depicted, with a simpleelectromagnetically activated cervical collar brace device 12 locatedaround his neck 14.

The cervical collar 12 encircles the neck 14 of the wearer and iscomprised of several moveable and overlapping component parts; includinga central anterior superior part 16, a central anterior inferior part18, a central anterior middle part 20, a left anterior lateral (visible)and a right anterior lateral part 22, a left posterior inferior(visible) and a right posterior inferior part 24, a central posteriorinferior part 26 and a central posterior superior part 28.

It should be apparent, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, thatcertain component parts are moveable relative to one or more othercomponent parts in rotational, shear and/or linear orientations. Forexample, the interface between the left anterior lateral part 22 and theleft posterior inferior) part 24 is rotatable and the combination of thetwo pieces may be extended or contracted. Together, the numerouscomponent parts of the cervical collar brace device 12 allow relativelyfree movement of the head and neck under normal circumstances. However,immediate immobilization is initiated in the event of an abnormal neckmovement being detected. All of the pieces are linked together, and thetethers that connect them will prevent the pieces from being unable tofunction when needed to limit movement.

Although a limited number of component parts are illustrated in FIG. 1,it should be readily apparent that the invention contemplates that moreor less component parts could be incorporated in the brace device 12;more parts increasing complexity, but also affording increasedflexibility of movement. The number, shape and size of the parts may bevaried to accommodate differences in the size, shape, and purpose of thebrace device. The component parts typically overlap over articulatedinterfaces; similar to the manner fish scales and ancient armor platingenable movement.

In FIG. 2, the wearer's head 10 has been subjected to an impact forcedirected substantially from in front of his original position. Thewearer may have been moving forward and then stopped suddenly (such asin a collision), or he may have been pushed backwards suddenly (such asin a tackle in football). In either event, the resultant movement causesan improper and abnormal extension of the neck at the rear, and anaccompanying compression of the vertebrae at the front, as the head ispropelled forward.

The impact has subjected considerable force on the wearer 10 and thishas caused the central anterior superior part 16 (the piece below thechin) to move down toward the central anterior inferior part (the pieceabove the breastbone) 18. The left anterior lateral part 22 and leftposterior inferior part 24 have also been caused to contract and rotaterelative to one another and the central posterior inferior part 26 andcentral posterior superior part 28 have moved apart. Following impact,it is possible that the recoil of the head and/or body could be thrownbackwards; potentially causing additional injury to the head and spine,especially as the wearer may have lost consciousness or have a reducedmuscular response to resist the secondary movement. In practice, suchrecoil movements may well cause a more harmful injury than thatinflicted from the initial impact; or the original injury may be furthercompounded or exacerbated by the secondary movements. Indeed, in certainapplications (such as “American” football) the subsequent swinging ofthe heavier, helmeted head can prove more injurious to the athlete thanthe initial inline impact.

Consequently, the present invention attempts to minimize the severity ofsuch injuries, by prohibiting, resisting and/or restricting movementbetween component parts, and thereby dynamically immobilizing the headand/or neck during the impact, and possible after recoil. Additionally,depending on the circumstances, the immobilized configuration may beheld temporarily or until emergency medical care is available; oralternatively, subsequent secondary movements may also be resisted orrestricted as the collar dynamically adjusts to a secondary modifiedimmobilization configuration.

The cervical collar brace device 12 is typically intended to be worn aspart of the safety equipment associated with high-risk activitiesundertaken by individuals in sports (e.g. race car drivers and athletessuch as football players), entertainment (stunt persons) and military,police or security personnel. In circumstances where a helmet is worn bythe wearer of the brace device, one or more of the component parts maybe tethered or otherwise connected to the helmet. Moreover, the helmetmay itself be formed of one or more parts, at least one of which mayitself act as a component part relative to the component parts of thebrace device; thereby providing additional stability between the bracedevice and helmet, and consequently contributing supplemental supportbetween the head and neck. Where the user is seated, all or part of thebrace device could be provided on the seat.

FIG. 3 shows an alternate embodiment of the brace device 12 depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2, where the brace device comprises component parts 30around the cervical portion of the spine, with additional support beingprovided from component parts provided on the shoulders 32, chest 34 andupper back 36 of the wearer 10.

It should be readily apparent that the responses described above inrelation to a frontal impact can equally be appropriately directed toside, rear and combination impacts or other sudden changes in movement.

The brace device of the present invention may comprise internal and/orexternal movement sensing means for determining any external forcesbeing applied to the wearer 10. This force will manifest itself in twoways: causing the head to be pushed in one direction (angular movement)as well as a downward (translational) movement on the head. Typicallythe movement sensing means are operated continuously during any activitypotentially requiring support from the brace device 12. Movement sensingmeans include, but are not necessarily limited to, accelerometers,gyroscopes, force-transducers, pressure sensors, strain gauges and thelike. Generally the brace devices will utilize accelerometers andgyroscopes; although the device may incorporate any of these or othersensing devices or products.

Gyroscopes can detect variations in the inclination or the brace device,namely pitch and yaw. Accelerometers monitor the magnitude and directionof acceleration (the rate of change in velocity) as a one, two, or threedimensional vector quantity that can detect changes in orientation andthe application of shocks. Preferably, the accelerometers utilized arethree dimensional (triple-axis) detecting accelerometers, butcombinations of these sensors can achieve similar goals. As withpresently available airbag deployment mechanisms, accelerometers may beused to detect the rapid negative acceleration (deceleration) of thevehicle and the brace device wearer and thereby determine when acollision has occurred, and provide signals and/or data relating to theseverity of the impact.

These movement sensing means may be deployed externally, being mountedon one or more of the component parts, such as on a chest piece, orcarried independently by the wearer 10, or be linked to the vehicle ordevice to which the wearer is active or associated. For example, awearer in a vehicle may have a brace device 12 that is in communicationwith the vehicle's airbag sensors and/or the dynamic stability controlsensors (controlling vehicle handling in response to cornering andbraking forces etc); where the brace device is activated completely orpartially upon certain of the vehicle systems experiencing one or morepredetermined conditions. The movement sensing means may also bedeployed internally within the brace device; for example, on one or moreof the component parts. Modern accelerometers, gyroscopes and othersensing devices are often very small micro electro-mechanical systems(as evidenced by their use in many handheld consumer electronicdevices), which facilitates such usage.

Typically the accelerometer and/or gyroscopes will provide athree-dimensional vector that can be incorporated in the determinationof an appropriate reaction in the partial or complete activation ofimmobilization of the brace device 12.

The movement sensing means enable the detection of forces thatpotentially inflict supra-physiological strains on the wearer. Uponreceipt of one or more output signals generated and communicated to amicroprocessor control means by the movement sensing means, themicroprocessor control means analyzes and interprets the receivedsignals and determines, in accordance with preprogrammed parameters andcriteria, whether the output signals are indicative of potentiallyinjury inflicting movement or change in movement.

In the event that the microprocessor determines that the movement of oneor more component parts of the brace device should be prohibited,restricted or resisted, the microprocessor activates movement resistingmeans, located on one or more of the component parts. These movementresisting means are operable to prohibit and/or resist movement of thecomponent parts relative to at least one other component part. Themovement resisting means may be activated, deactivated or dynamicallycontrolled when the control means determines a movement requiressupport, or a change in support, of the spine. The movement resistingmeans are typically electrically activated micro-spot electromagneticlock assemblies 40, as shown in FIG. 4, comprising a catch-plate 42,having conductive spots (flat spots), and an electromagnetic lock device44, having double concentric electrical elements (target spot).

The microprocessor may be programmed with specific parameters andcriteria that are refined and nuanced for the particular needs of thewearer and/or activity. The typical algorithm for calculation of netforce vectors follows the Pythagorean Theorem: if the acceleration inthree-dimensions has a value of x for the vertical (up-down) axis, y forthe horizontal (left-right) axis, and z for the horizontal(forward-back) axis, then the formula for net acceleration (n) isexpressed as n²=x²+y²+z². The absolute value of a net acceleration thatexceeds certain parameters, and/or certain limits on the individualparameters, will trigger the device to immobilize. There may also beindividual customized settings for the duration and strength of theimmobilization force applied. In general, vertical translation is lesswell tolerated than lateral movements, so these parameters may typicallyhave lower thresholds for activation.

The type of locking mechanism appropriate for immobilization of thebrace devices may vary across different needs and applications. Therecan, for example, be mechanical immobilization, such as anelectrostatically activated form of hook-and-eye fabric (like Velcro™);where in the resting phase the fabric can move smoothly, but uponactivation of an appropriate electrical, mechanical, chemical ormagnetic signal the fabric is caused to become “sticky”. Chemicalimmobilization through chemical bonds could also be applied as a lockingmechanism, or other alternative types of physical locking mechanisms.However, in FIGS. 5 a and 5 b a simple system for immobilization isdescribed, involving the use of electromagnetic locks.

FIG. 5 a shows several small electromagnetic lock assemblies 40 of FIG.4, affixed to partially or completely overlapping portions of thecomponent parts of the brace device 12. One component part comprises aninterface area of catch-plates 42 and the other has a complementary areaof electromagnetic lock devices 44. The complementary areas are providedin areas that facilitate activation of a locked brace device interfacein normal and anticipated abnormal positions.

The two sets are laid out so that the maximum number of productivecontacts will be made, and no short-circuits exist. In the preferredembodiment, each interface is charged with a 4 volt, 0.015 ampcontinuous draw that will divide the equivalent force of 4 lbs forceacross the active electromagnetic lock assemblies. Consequently, ahexagonal pattern is formed, such that the size of the flat spots aretypically 25% larger in diameter than the target spots, the target spotsare separated by the diameter of the flat spots, and the flat spotsspaced apart at a distance calculated at 110% of the target diameter.

The initial dimension chosen for the target spots is an approximateouter radius of 0.5 mm (outer contact is 0.05 mm thick, insulator is 0.2mm thick and the inner spot radius is 0.2 mm). This configurationsubstantially prevents any target spot from coming into contact withmore than one flat spot. Each target spot is consequently approximately1.0 mm in diameter, spaced 2.25 mm apart (center to center).

Each flat spot is approximately 1.25 mm in diameter, spacedapproximately 1.1 mm apart.

On a 1 cm overlap that is 3 cm long, this will result in a grid of 3×9target spots and a grid of 4×11 flat spots. While this may not be alinear matching, the variable spacing allows for there to be a fewtarget spots in direct contact with flat spots at all times, withoutneeding to be realigned first.

FIG. 5 b shows two complementary portions of the component parts of thebrace device, rotated and linearly moved in an overlapping configurationthat enables immediate immobilization or resisted movement.

A power source, such as a battery located in the chest plate componentpart, or connected externally to the brace device 12, maintains anelectric charge across the electromagnetic lock assemblies 40 whileactivated. The initial discharge, which needs to be a higher currentdelivered to maintain a stronger force for immobilization, may bedelivered by a capacitor charged by the battery, or there may be abattery that has a high enough discharge rate to achieve this forceapplied across the multiple electromagnetic locks simultaneously. Onceactivated, and once the initial time period of maximum immobilizationpasses (as programmed), the force applied may reduce to a lower forceonce the collision event has ended.

In a collision event, for example, this charge may be held untilemergency services arrive. The brace device may then be deactivated orconnected to a supplemental power source. The initial charge applied istypically a higher rating in order to apply maximum holding force to theinterfaces holding the component parts. However, the charge may then belowered to maintain the position after a predetermined time, for exampleafter the first minute has passed since activation. This reduction insupplied charge allows for maximum battery life, while still maintainingsufficient holding force to immobilize spine of the wearer. Thisprevents movement of the neck or back from the position attained at thetime of injury, minimizing the chance of subsequent movement-relatedinjury, but allows emergency medical service personnel (EMS) then todeactivate the brace device, reposition the head if necessary undercontrolled supervision and re-establish a preferred immobilizationposition.

Alternatively, in a temporary stress situation, for example a racingdriver or pilot being subjected to excess G-forces, the brace device 12may provide temporary bracing for the duration of the stress inducingsituation (cornering, braking etc). In such circumstances, theactivation of the brace device, and accompanying provision of applicablecharge and holding force to the component parts, is more dynamic andchangeable.

Insulated flexible wires attach the individual component parts to eachother to carry the electric current, as well as to carry the outputsignals generated by movement sensors to the microprocessor and theelectronic signals to the movement resisting means. The brace devicecould also incorporate a wireless distress signal generating mechanism,operable to notify emergency crews in the event of the deployment of thedevice. There are multiple component part interfaces, each of which isseparately charged from the battery; consequently, the brace device mayalso be provided with an alarm mechanism to provide a warning sound toalert the wearer if any contacting interfaces are dysfunctional.

In an alternative embodiment, the catch-plate side of the component partmay be provided only with a smooth flat conductive surface, with alltarget spots contacting this single conductor. In another alternativeembodiment, the hexagonal shaped pattern of the flat spots is locatedwith insulated spaces calculated at approximately the thickness of innerspot of the electromagnetic lock, to prevent multiple contacts.

Commercially available electromagnetic lock assembles of the kinddescribed above exhibit a holding force capable of holding approximately25 lbs (11.3 kg), using operating voltages of 24VDC, 24VAC or 120VAC/60Hz. This unit will have a continuous current draw of 0.015 Amps,(regardless of whether the current used is direct or alternating, andregardless of the voltage applied). The resistance to shear forces ofthis assembly is such that it requires a much greater orthogonal forceto displace a force applied.

In the preferred embodiment, the component parts would be manufacturedas individual plates, having edges with slide guards that prevent themfrom sliding too far in any one direction, while maintaining theelectromagnetic lock assemblies in generally layered apposition. Theplates are preferably formed from injected molded plastic, butpolycarbonate, Kevlar™, nano-machined substances, metals and other wovenor machined materials can be substituted based on the needs andapplication of the device (military applications may be coated or madewith Kevlar to resist bullets, shrapnel, or knife wounds) in order toprovide some flexing, and thereby further reducing applied forces in theevent of severe physical stresses.

In addition, there would be sufficient overlap between the interfacingplates to allow for a full range of motion, when not activated, in allcardinal ranges of motion (flexion, extension, left and right lateralbending, and left and right rotation), while still having a sufficientnumber of micro-spots in potential contact to apply an adequate forcecapable of preventing sliding. As the force required to prevent slidingof the plates would be a substantially orthogonally applied shear to theelectromagnetic force, a small electromagnetic force is sufficient toprevent all but the most severe of physical forces from deforming thebrace device 12 once activated.

The component part plates' movement is preferably limited so that theedges are not able to slide to the extent that the micro-spots cease tobe in contact with each other. This will typically be achieved by havingsmall angled “stops” that prevent too much overlap, and by providing anylon safety strap on each overlap to prevent complete separation.

FIG. 6 shows an alternative embodiment of the brace device 12, where thebrace device would pull on over the head of a wearer 10 (much like aturtleneck and balaclava, with no sleeves) with component part platesextending down into the chest and back area. The collar would extend upover the lower jaw and behind the inion (bony prominence of occipitalbone at the back of the skull just above the neck) to provide fullimmobilization.

A third embodiment of the invention utilizes “smart materials” or“intelligent textiles” in the brace device. Although, such fabrics aresometimes distinguished in the art (the former sensing environmentalconditions or stimuli, and the latter considered capable of alsoreacting to the conditions or stimuli), no such distinction is made inthis specification. The term “smart fabric” is herein used to encompassboth possibilities generally. Smart fabrics typically utilizenanotechnology and are generally soft and flexible in normalcircumstances, but are able to harden almost instantaneously whensubjected to an impact or other external stimulus.

An example of an innovative early electro-conductive smart fabric isElekTex, developed by Eleksen Ltd, a British company. This product usestechnology that sandwiches an electrically conductive, proprietary,knitted textile between carbon-impregnated knitted nylon layers, whichin turn are covered with an outer layer similar to woven nylon. Theresulting product is flexible and “touch sensitive;” being capable ofsensing the position of a touch on the surface, as well asdifferentiating the intensity of the pressure applied. Another exampleis the Dow Corning Active Protection System; which is soft, flexible andbreathable in normal conditions, but hardens almost instantly uponreceiving an impact (and then returns to the flexible state when theimpacting force is removed). The Scandinavian Research organizationSINTEF has also developed a generally soft and flexible material called“d3o”, which uses intelligent molecules that flow freely until subjectedto pressure, whereupon they instantly lock to harden andabsorb/distribute the impacting force. This product is known to be usedin helmet lining.

It will be appreciated from the above, that hardening of the smartmaterial in response to a direct impact is known. However, hardening ofthe smart material (without the material necessarily being subjected toa simultaneous direct impact) in response to a movement or a change inmovement determined to be potentially injurious is not contemplated inthe art. The present invention envisages use of garments or othersuitable products utilizing smart fabrics that form the brace device, orform part of a brace device. The material could be activated byapplication of an appropriate stimulus, such as a current, a change incurrent, or the stopping of the current; such that the smart fabric iscaused to “freeze” in its current state, position or shape, or whichdemonstrates variable rigidity to provide resistance to movement. Thetensile properties within one or more regions of the fabric beingaltered in response to the stimulus, which activates, deactivates ordynamically controls fabric hardening means; thereby partially orsubstantially hardening these regions. The stimulus and/or hardeningmeans may be thermal, chemical, mechanical, electrical, magnetic or fromanother appropriate source. For example, the above mentioned productscould readily be caused to harden by mimicking, in response to themovement or change in movement, the stimulus and reaction resulting froma directly impacting event.

The present invention also contemplates movement sensing means beingprovided on one or more locations on the smart fabric and/or otherelements of the brace device (if applicable). The smart fabric mayadditionally include other sensors. For example, researchers have foundthat molecules of a material that reacts with human serum albumin can beadded (coated on) to the fibers of the fabric; which molecules detectthe presence, location and intensity of bleeding (on application of anelectric current through the fibers and measuring the changingconductivity across the fabric). Other sensors may also be included onthe brace device, being a capable of monitoring the physical conditionor heath of the wearer, including the heart rate, body temperature andblood pressure etc. All of this information may be communicated directlyor wirelessly to emergency personnel that respond to an injury inflictedon the brace device wearer in order to assist them in the appropriatecare and treatment.

It will be appreciated that the embodiments described in thisspecification relate to the support of the spine of a wearer in responseto conditions that potentially inflict physiological stresses andstrains. This invention contemplates that appropriate modifications tothe brace device could readily be made to control or prevent unwanted orabnormal movement in other areas of the body, such as hinged joints, foruse in medical rehabilitation, training, or other situations where thepotential for injury is high.

FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of a somewhat simplified (morestatic) variation of the dynamic support systems described above whichis primarily used for the extrication of patients after accidents. Thecurrent standard methodology for extrication of a patient of a motorvehicle accident involves placement of a disposable rigid cervicalcollar (such as the Stifneck™ device; by Laerdal, Wappingers Falls,N.Y.) followed by placement of the KED by EMS personnel. Demonstrationvideos show this process taking approximately 5 minutes, when applied ina training situation where the “patient” is sitting in a chair; not in avehicle with various impediments to a safe and expedient extrication.

Currently, the KED systems available in the market is heavy (8 pounds),cumbersome, and difficult to place on patients without moving them. Themajor stabilizing agent of the KED is the backboard, which needs to bepassed in its full thickness (1 inch) behind the patient's torso. Thedevice takes up valuable space in any EMS-type vehicle (for example, 34inches by 11 inches by 6 inches), and once in place makes it difficultto evaluate the body of the patient in any of the areas being securedwithout risk of additional injury.

FIG. 7 shows a flexible extrication system 50 is comprised of multiplesubstantially rigid plates 52 that are each appropriately shaped andcontoured to suit the generalized body habitus (at the area of the bodywhere it will be applied) of the average patient. Many of the plates aremoveable relative to other plates and have regions of partial overlap 54with one or more other plates with which they can be engaged and lockedusing appropriate movement resisting means and mechanisms described inprevious embodiments above.

All plates are connected to a waterproofed central power/control devicevia flexible wire cables. The plates of the flexible extrication systemare affixed to a Lycra™-like lining (inside and out) and this linershell 56 will maintain general shape and alignment yet preventover-distraction. A second reusable liner, made of a water-resistantfabric similar to a Nylon/Lycra mesh, preferably envelopes the deviceand is provided with several loops 58. The flexible extrication systemdevice can be stored flat, but more typically will be stored wrapped upin a roll to save space, with the second liner already attached (theroll diameter is approximately 6 inches when stored). On the outside ofthe roll (in sleeves) will be located two substantially rigid, butslightly flexible, plastic pull-rods 60 (shown in FIG. 8), beingapproximately 5 mm in diameter. These pull-rods may be attached on theoutside of the device, and have one or more engaging means, in the formof tabs 62 provided on the ends, which tabs are operable to engage withthe loops on either side of the flexible extrication system device. Theloops are preferably provided at the shoulder straps 64 and the cheststraps 66, but additional tabs could be provided on the pull-rods thatcorrespond with other loops on the device or which enable pull andpulling. In this manner, the device can be used from either the driver'sor passenger's side of the vehicle.

The small diameter pull-rods 60 are independently passed behind the bodyof the person 68 to be extricated; one substantially around the small ofthe back and the second substantially behind the neck, as shown in FIG.8( a). The pull-rod tabs 62 are engaged in the loops of the straps andthe pull-rods are then be used to pull (or push) the now unrolled devicebehind the patient; the rods are then disengaged and removed (shown inFIG. 8( c)). The individual straps 70, 72, 74 and 76 are passed in frontof the patient, thereby pulling both sides of the flexible extricationsystem around to overlap in front of the patient, and the chest andshoulder straps then secured tightly in front of the patient usingVelcro (or other appropriate fastening mechanism). The chin straps 78and 80 will be fitted snugly under the chin, with the chin located inthe chin portion 82. FIG. 8( d) shows the flexible extrication systemdevice secured around the patient 68. It will be appreciated that thedevice directly incorporates head and neck immobilization, includingdirect support for the skull (84), without need for a separate cervicalcollar.

The individual shaped plates 54 of the flexible extrication systemdevice 50 contour to the patient's body and the degree of interfacingoverlap between each plate can be varied; so the device will only needminimal adjustments to get it ready for activation and immobilizationbased on the patient's size. The adjustable nature of the deviceaccommodates to secure morbidly obese patients, pregnant patients, andchildren; providing immobilization from the region of the lumbar spineto the head, inclusive of lumbar, thoracic and cervical regions of thespine. In addition, the ability to contour to the patient will allow forpatients of atypical body habitus (having scoliosis or kyphosis, forexample) to be equally stabilized.

Once the device is secured (as shown in. FIG. 8( d)), the flexibleextrication system is activated, and the electromagnetic locks locatedat the regions of overlap 54 tighten and freeze the plates 52 intoplace. The contoured shapes of the moveable plates cause an appropriatecompressive, supportive force to be applied to the patient. In a moresophisticated variant of the flexible extrication system, the magneticlocks can be caused to provide a measure of pre-tensioning prior tolocking. The patient is then removed from the vehicle as a single block,using the attached handles (not shown) to pull at the hips and shouldersso as not to move the neck. The electromagnetic locks hold the plates inplace, preventing relative movement of one body part to another, whichreduces the chances of worsening of neurological or medical conditions.

The patient is then strapped, if necessary, onto any commerciallyavailable spine board (as if not wearing a KED (Kendrick ExtricationDevice) or the flexible extrication system). The straps already attachedto the board will readily stretch around the flexible extrication systemon the patient, which will hold the patient and flexible extricationsystem on the board for transportation onto the stretcher and from thereinto the EMS (emergency medical services) vehicle and out on arrival atthe ER (Emergency Room). Once in the ER, the patient can be safelyremoved from the spine board as the flexible extrication system willhold the person stably and any further long-board immobilization isunnecessary. The system will also have the capability to have one side74 and/or 78 or the other side 76 and/or 80 turned off and unstrapped,in order to permit log-rolling of the patient and examination of theirback, neck and sides, one side or portion at a time, while maintainingthe immobilization on the other (dependent) side or portion. With asingle press of a button the first side (or a portion thereof) could bereactivated, and then a second press of a button causes the other sideto be deactivated. Safety protocols will be present to preventaccidental deactivation during transport.

The device will likely have some minimal radiographic signature uponimaging, but given the current technology in flexible circuitry, thiswill have minimal impact (wires are small, while the majority of thedevice will be radiolucent) upon imaging of body anatomy; and because ofthe tight fit to the individual patient it will be easier to fit into CTscanners than the KED.

Finally, when the flexible extrication system is no longer needed tosupport/immobilize the patient, the device will be deactivated fully andremoved. If the patient still needs cervical immobilization, due to afracture or other instability, a cervical collar can be placed by the ERor neurosurgical team (which is often done anyway since the typicalextrication cervical collar is usually replaced due to its abrasiveedges). At that time, the flexible extrication system liner can beremoved for later cleaning and decontamination back at the station, andthe main part of the device and liner shell 56 can be cleaned and ifnecessary decontaminated by EMS. A fresh liner is reapplied and thedevice is rolled up again, with the plastic rods reattached to theoutside for storage on the EMS vehicle ready for repeat deployment.

It is believed that the flexible extrication system will improve uponthe current standard of care provided by emergency medical services(EMS) and First Responders in immobilizing the spine of individuals withinjuries to the head, neck or spine and facilitating treatment. Theflexible extrication system enables effective securement andimmobilization of the full spinal area of a human of any age and/or bodytype, thereby reducing the potential of further injury during in-fieldstabilization and subsequent transport by EMS providers whether beingtransported on a spine board or not.

Is will be appreciated that the flexible extrication system consists ofa combination of carefully shaped, moveable overlapping and interlockingplates, defining a flexible brace that can be easily configured to thepatient's body. When electromagnetically activated (and locked) theplates in combination form a rigid brace for the provision ofimmobilization and support to the lumbar and thoracic back, neck, andhead of a person involved in an accident, such as a motor vehicleaccident, who may be at risk for or is already suffering from a spinalinjury. In comparison with other available devices that requirepre-configuration and pre-adjustment prior to fitment, the flexibleextrication is essentially self-fitting; with the adjustment beingautomatic and occurring after fitment.

The plates are generally contoured for accommodation of certain areas ofthe body and certain plates are moveable relative to one or more otherplates, in rotational, shear and/or linear orientations, and thecombination of the pieces may be extended or contracted within definedparameters. Together, the numerous plates of the flexible extricationsystem allow relatively flexible movement while being positioned aroundthe head, neck and/or back of the patient (for example, while still inthe vehicle), but upon activation the plates will be drawn together toan appropriate supportive force (taking up the slack and “molding” tothe shape of the patient). Although the contoured nature of the plateslargely achieves this, the device could additionally be eitherpre-programmed or calibrated by the First Responder to provideappropriate rigid immobilization and support (accounting for extricationdifficulties or specific injuries). The number, shape and size of theplate parts may be varied to accommodate differences in the size, shpeand purpose of the brace device. Additionally, depending on thecircumstances, the initial immobilized configuration may be heldtemporarily (perhaps to extricate the patient from the vehicle) and thendeactivated and easily readjusted by emergency personnel to a moreappropriate secondary modified immobilization configuration.

When the flexible extrication system detects activation by FirstResponders, a microprocessor triggers electrically activated micro-spotelectromagnetic lock assemblies located on one or more plates;prohibiting movement of the plates relative to at least one other plate.These locking mechanisms comprise catch-plates (conductive flat spots)located on one plate and partially or completely overlappingcorresponding electromagnetic locks with double concentric electrical(target spot) elements located on the other plate. The engagement areasare provided in places that facilitate activation of a locked bracedevice interface in anticipated support configurations. Generally, theelectromagnetic type of locking mechanism is appropriate, although othermovement resistant mechanisms for the immobilization of the bracedevices may be applicable for different needs and applications (such asdisposable devices); potentially including mechanical immobilization,where in the resting phase the plates remain flexible relative to oneanother, but upon activation of an appropriate electrical, mechanical,chemical or magnetic signal the locking interface is caused to become“sticky”.

Upon activation, each locking interface is charged with a continuouselectrical draw (typically 0.015 Amps) that will spread the resistiveforce across the active electromagnetic lock assemblies. A power sourceis provided by a battery located in the flexible extrication system orconnected externally to ensure electric charge across theelectromagnetic lock assemblies while activated. Insulated flexibleconductors will connect the individual component parts to each other tocarry the electric current. Commercially available electromagnetic lockassembles of the kind described above exhibit a holding force capable ofholding approximately 25 lbs (11.3 kg) using operating voltages of24VDC. The resistance to shear forces of this assembly is such that itrequires a much greater orthogonal force to displace a force applied.

The flexible extrication system utilizes battery power with anintegrated and waterproofed source that is rechargeable usinglithium-ion type batteries (the batteries will typically be charged fromthe 12VDC power supply of the EMS vehicle). Once the patient isextricated and placed in the EMS vehicle, the device could again drawpower from the EMS vehicle and then revert again to battery supply uponarrival in the ER (where the device could be either under battery orexternal power supply).

For transportation and for radiology procedures, a battery supply of atleast one hour is appropriate, with a warning when battery life iswaning. The electrical properties necessary to maintain the holdingforces with the electromagnetic locks will determine the materials to beused in the device, but special care will be taken to ensure that thesystems are adequately insulated and grounded for maximum safety forboth safety personnel and the patient being extricated (even when underwater). A built-in capacity to sense whether any locking points arefailing to maintain adequate hold or tension may be provided, and somefeedback (such as LEDs on the front of the device) will inform the EMSpersonnel where the failures are to facilitate optimal immobilization.Finally, when the battery life is near its end, a separate LED couldindicate required replacement. The maintenance of the device willconsist primarily of changing the battery when an LED warning lightshows that the battery is no longer holding an adequate charge; therewill be no other user-serviceable parts.

The plates will preferably be formed from injected molded plastic, andrelative movement between plates will be limited so that the edges arenot able to slide to the extent that the micro-spots cease to be incontact with each other. This will typically be achieved by having smallangled “stops” that prevent excessive overlap.

A more advanced version of the flexible extrication system may utilize“smart materials” or “intelligent textiles” in the brace device, whichtypically utilize nanotechnology and are generally soft and flexible innormal circumstances, but are able to harden almost instantaneously whensubjected to an external stimulus.

The flexible extrication system has ready applicability in protectingthe patient from worsening their condition by stabilizing the head,neck, chest, and lumbar spine, and is designed to be used in FirstResponder applications in lieu of cervical collars or other spinalbracing traditionally used for trauma patients after an accident orinjury (such as the Kendrick Extrication Device). Once the patient issupported and removed from the vehicle, the person can be strapped to aspine board; but because the flexible extrication system is both rigidand contoured to the patient there is a much reduced possibility forpressure ulcers to develop in transit. The spine board is typically onlynecessary as an easy transport media or for those patients having leg orarm injuries that would preclude any movement of the limbs; otherwisefor an isolated trunk or head/neck injury the flexible extricationsystem could itself serve as the spine board.

This device is to be substantially radiolucent (permitting X-rays topass through), reusable, more compact than the KED, easily cleaned anddecontaminated, durable, and will require little additional training foruse and general maintenance. The device, as moldable to individual bodytypes, should replace the use of both cervical collars and the KEDdevice, thereby also reducing the need for as many carry collars on anEMS vehicle. There will be a fluid and blood resistant liner that willprotect the device and the EMS personnel, which may be disposable orreusable and easily cleaned and decontaminated.

The problematic issues confronted through the use of backboards and KEDSare in many instances avoided, as the flexible extrication system shouldin most circumstances provide sufficient support independently,replacing the backboard/KED completely. The flexible extrication system:

-   -   is easy to use and rapidly deployable, facilitating initial        positioning in difficult environments with patients that may be        in highly abnormal spinal positions, providing highly simplified        fastening/molding of the device around the portion of the spine        requiring support (with the click of a button), enabling        extrication of the patient while maintaining immobilizing        support and prohibiting any substantial subsequent movement;        enabling ready readjustment and reactivation of the device when        the patient can safely be moved into a more comfortable or        appropriate position;    -   is form fitting; the combination of multiple moveable, shaped        plates affords significant flexibility and “moldabilty” to a        wide range of body shapes and sizes, as well as abnormal body        postures, while also providing a high degree of immobilizing        strength and support to all spinal areas;    -   is durable; not being susceptible to puncture (as with some        inflatable devices); and highly durable;    -   is easily to clean and decontaminate, being made primarily of        plastic plates and cloth, with any electrical component parts        being sealed and waterproofed;    -   is compatible with existing equipment, and indeed removing the        need for certain equipment in certain applications;    -   is absorbent, through use of appropriate cloth coverings;    -   is of variable size, with reduced need for as many sizes due to        the in-built adaptability of the plate configurations;    -   is radio-translucent, substantially facilitating use of X-rays        through careful positioning of the radio-opaque components in        less relevant areas and the ability to activate/deactivate        certain portions of the device and afford partial access to the        potentially injured region;    -   reduces threat of further injury; using flexible rods, the        flexible extrication system can be passed behind the patient        requiring only minimal repositioning to pull the device behind        the body at the small of the back and behind the neck, enabling        application while the patient is still in a vehicle; EMS or        Emergency Room doctors can log-roll the patient for examination        while maintaining immobility; and the patient is less        susceptible to pressure sores from over-tightening of chest        straps on the existing KEDs, as the flexible extrication system        will have a superior fit provided due to the moldable material;    -   is easily transported and stored; being smaller than the current        KED, allowing multiple devices to be carried on a typical EMS        vehicle (ambulance, helicopter, boat), weighs less and will be        easier to apply, and requires considerably less manipulation of        the patient prior to immobilization being achieved (and can be        easily readjusted when appropriate to do so);    -   will replace the need for both cervical collars and KED at the        scene of the accident;    -   will save time, because it will be easier to apply, and        application will be partially automated; which will mean having        the patient out of the vehicle and ready for transfer to the        next level of care sooner.

Because of the superior fit, the flexible extrication system willprovide a superior immobilization without causing respiratoryrestriction due to over-tightening of the chest straps on existingdevices. Superior fit will also mean a reduced profile of the device,which will allow for easier use in a CT scanner by emergency room (ER)personnel. Moreover, the device will have the capability of beingpartially and reversibly deactivated on one side or the other,facilitating examination and evaluation of half of the body during alog-roll examination, while simultaneously maintaining immobilization ofthe other side. It is believed this capability does not exist in anyother device currently on the market and would represent a significantstep forward in mitigating one of the major risks of other devices,namely allowing additional injury to the patient during the typicallog-roll examination when the different parts of the patient may moverelative to one-another if not so constrained.

The vast majority of the cross-sectional area of the flexibleextrication system device will be radiolucent. Re-usable liners will beeasy to wash, change and allow the protection of the First Respondersfrom blood. The flexible extrication system can be deactivated and readyfor use immediately after cleaning the main shell and insertion of afresh liner (it is anticipated that multiple liners will be providedwith each device to make sure that there are adequate available betweenlaundering). Finally, physiological sensors can be built into moreadvanced versions of the flexible extrication system device, saving timefor application of similar devices, such as heart monitors, bloodpressure monitors, temperature monitors, among others. This informationmay be transmitted in advance to the ER in anticipation of hand-overfrom the First Responders.

The plates will be made of a material that is relatively rigid, butradiolucent (plastic, carbon fiber and low density alloys like magnesiumare applicable). Different materials may be selected for different partsor for different places on the device, based on the weight of the deviceand the radiographic impact. For example, maximum radiographicimportance is typically focused on the middle of the device in anteriorand lateral projections, and some plates may be larger and bear moreload than others. Only two locations of the flexible extrication systemare likely to have a radio-opaque metal; namely the battery case andmicroprocessor unit (which will likely be positioned behind and abovethe head) and the edges of the plates (where the metallicelectromagnetic locks will be located). The size and number of magneticlocks will be kept as small as possible and, where possible, the lockswill not be in line with the center of the device in order to minimizeany overlap with the spinal anatomy. In this regard, consideration isgiven to optimal positioning of metallic components to ensure minimalimpact upon the typical work undertaken in an emergency room situation.Where a relatively small profile and/or high effective holding force isrequired, due to plate movement configurations or to avoid interferencein scanning procedures, it is possible to apply a combination ofelectromagnetic locks with friction surfaces (etching) that supplementthe locking mechanism in a way that once the lock is engaged, littlepower will be required to maintain the holding force.

Reference is made in this specification to the application ofmicroprocessors that may be used in accordance with the presentinvention and as applied in some example embodiments. It should beappreciated that the microprocessors may operate as a standalone deviceor may be connected (e.g., networked) to other microprocessors,computers or devices. In a networked deployment, the microprocessors mayoperate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in aserver-client network environment, or as a peer machine in apeer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The microprocessormay be a server computer, a client computer, a personal computer (PC), atablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), acellular telephone, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge,or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential orotherwise) that specify, actions to be taken by that machine. Further,while a single microprocessor may be described, a single microprocessorshall also be taken to include any collection of microprocessors thatindividually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructionsto perform any one or more of the functions described in thisspecification.

Machine-readable media may be provided, on which is stored one or moresets of instructions (e.g., software, firmware, or a combinationthereof) embodying any one or more of the functions described in thisspecification. The instructions may also reside, completely or at leastpartially, within the main memory, the static memory, and/or within theprocessor during execution thereof by the computer system. Theinstructions may further be transmitted or received over a network viathe network interface device.

In example embodiments, a microprocessor may be configured to performcertain operations. In other embodiments, the device may includededicated circuitry or logic that is permanently configured (e.g.,within a special-purpose processor) to perform certain operations. Itmay also comprise programmable logic or circuitry (e.g., as encompassedwithin a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) thatis temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations. Itwill be appreciated that the decision to implement the devicemechanically, in the dedicated and permanently configured circuitry, orin temporarily configured circuitry (e.g. configured by software) may bedriven by cost and time considerations. Accordingly, the term“microprocessor” should be understood to encompass a tangible entity, bethat an entity that is physically constructed, permanently configured(e.g., hardwired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) tooperate in a certain manner and/or to perform certain operationsdescribed herein.

1. A brace device for the support of a wearer, the brace devicecomprising: a flexible smart fabric, operable to partially orsubstantially enclose and/or lie adjacent to one or more portions of thethoracic, lumbar and/or cervical portions of the spine of the wearer;and fabric hardening means, operable to partially or substantiallyharden one or more regions of the smart fabric upon application of anactivating stimulus, thereby to prohibit, restrict and/or resistmovement of one or more portions of the spine of the wearer; wherein oneor more predetermined regions of the smart fabric are in a substantiallyflexible configuration when the fabric hardening means are notactivated, facilitating positioning, fitment and/or adjustment of thedevice around the wearer, and upon activation of the fabric hardeningmeans are operable to cause the one or more predetermined regions toassume a substantially rigid configuration and thereby partially orsubstantially support and/or immobilize of at least a portion of thespine of the wearer.
 2. The brace device according to claim 1, whereinthe hardening means and/or the applied stimulus may be thermal,chemical, mechanical, electrical or magnetic.
 3. The brace device ofclaim 1, wherein the brace device further comprises sensors formonitoring the physical condition or the wearer.
 4. The brace deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the brace device further comprises sensorsfor monitoring the physical condition or the wearer and wherein thesensors monitor the heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure and/orthe presence and/or location of bleeding.
 5. The brace device of claim1, wherein one or more predetermined regions are selectively activatedor deactivated.